Chapter 13: Problem Solving and Creativity

Question 1

Problem solving

Answer 1

Beginning with a goal and seeking steps needed to reach said goal

Question 2

Problem space

Answer 2

The set of all states that can be reached in solving a problem, as the problem solver moves, by means of the problem’s operations, from the problem’s initial state to the goal

Question 3

Hill-climbing strategy

Answer 3

When given a choice, choosing the option that brings you towards the goal

Question 4

Means-end analysis

Answer 4

A person is guided, step-by-step, by the difference between current and goal states, and by asking which operations will reduce the difference

Question 5

Mapping

Answer 5

Process of figuring out how aspects of one situation/argument correspond to aspects of some other

Crucial for the problem solver’s ability to find and use analogies

Question 6

Ill-defined problems

Answer 6

Problems that are not clearly defined (goal is too vague)

Question 7

Functional fixedness

Answer 7

Tendency to be rigid in how one thinks about an object’s function

Only the typical function

Question 8

Problem-solving set

Answer 8

Starting assumption used when solving a problem

Often helpful, but not always

Question 9

Einstellung

Answer 9

Rigidity grows from early efforts (problem-solving set)

Question 10

Preparation

Answer 10

In problem-solving, the first in a series of stages often hypothesized as crucial for creativity

Beginning stage, little progress

Question 11

Incubation

Answer 11

2nd creativity step

Person puts a problem out of conscious thought but continues to work on it unconsciously

Question 12

Illumination

Answer 12

3rd creativity step

New key insight comes to mind

Question 13

Verification

Answer 13

Final creativity step

Person finds the solution and works it out

Question 14

Convergent thinking

Answer 14

Ability to connect distinct ideas

Question 15

Divergent thinking

Answer 15

Ability to move thoughts in novel, unanticipated directions